Information processing apparatus, process control method, and program thereof

ABSTRACT

A workflow scheduler is provided in which highly correlated processes are scheduled so as to be continuously executed. The workflow scheduler analyzes an input print order, divides the print order into a plurality of processes to carry out the print order, arranges a schedule of the plurality of processes divided, groups a set of processes together from the plurality of processes into which the print order is divided according to grouping attributes of the plurality of processes, the set of processes being associated with each other by the grouping attributes, outputs the plurality of processes whose schedule is arranged by the schedule arranging unit in a recognizable manner, and arranges the schedule of the plurality of processes such that the set of processes is capable of being executed continuously.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a workflow scheduler (an informationprocessing apparatus and a program thereof) serving as a process controlsystem for use in a print system that receives a document from a userand outputs (prints and/or binds) the document.

2. Description of the Related Art

The commercial printing industry is an industry that accepts orders forcreation of printed matter (e.g., magazines, newspapers, catalogs andadvertisements) from third parties (e.g., customers, or clients),creates printed matter that the clients require, delivers the printedmatter to the clients, and receives payment for such products. Toproduce such products, large-scale printing machines, such as offsetpresses, are now becoming mainstream. Work in such a commercial printingindustry involves various processes: document reception, design, layout,comprehensive layout (presentation using output from printers), which isusually shortened to comp, proofing (correction in layout and color),trial impression (proof printing), preparation of plate for printing,printing, postpress processing, dispatch, and the like.

The reason for the presence of the various steps is that the use of theabove printing machine requires preparation of the plate for printing,and once the plate for printing has been prepared, correction of theplate is difficult and highly disadvantageous in terms of cost.Therefore, careful proofing, that is, a confirmatory check of layout andcolor is necessary. In summary, the printing industry requireslarge-scale printing machines and needs a certain amount of time andcertain kinds of tasks to create printed matter that a client requires.Additionally, individual tasks require expert knowledge, i.e., expertiseof skilled laborers.

Recently, with the increasing speed and resolution ofelectrophotographic printers and inkjet printers, a “Print on Demand”(POD) market has emerged as a competitor of the traditional printingindustry. Print on Demand is a technology that aims to be capable ofhandling jobs with volumes relatively smaller than those handled intraditional printers on short lead times without using larger-scaleprinters or systems, like offset presses, and that makes full use ofdigital image forming devices, such as digital copiers, digitalmultifunction peripherals, and the like, instead of the use of thelarger-scale printers and printing methods described above, and realizesdigital printing using electronic data.

Compared to the traditional printing industry, such a POD market hasbecome more digitized and computer-controlled, and the POD market isapproaching the level of the traditional printing industry to someextent by using computers. Under such circumstances, in the POD market,the “print-for-pay” (PFP) service, which is a print service provided bycopy and print shops, and the centralized reproduction department (CRD)service, which is an in-house print service in corporations, areavailable.

In providers of these print services, persons in charge determine theprocessing sequence and the processing time of requests from a specifiedor unspecified large number of customers solely on the basis of theirestimates or experience with consideration of the number of printingpages, the delivery time, or restrictions of human and materialresources (task assignments). In accordance with the determinedschedules, in the case of paper documents, specified documents arecopied with copiers, and in the case of electronic documents, specifiedfiles are printed out with printers connected to personal computers.Then, the providers perform final checks and collations, and deliver theproducts to the customers.

The task assignments performed by conventional methods described aboveare not necessarily efficient. In particular, in the case of amultiple-process task, if processes are closely correlated with oneanother, executing the correlated processes continuously is moreefficient in some cases. However, such an efficient task assignment isdifficult when the task assignment is solely dependent on estimates orexperience of a person in charge. One way to address this problem is toprovide a process control device having a function of allowing a user tointuitively grasp a schedule of the entire printing system anddynamically change a processing date and time and/or a processingsubject of each printing job with an intuitive operation, as in JapanesePatent Laid-Open No. 2002-063004.

In the case of a multiple-process task, if processes are closelycorrelated with one another, executing the correlated processescontinuously is more efficient in some cases. According to conventionalmethods, as discussed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-063004,print jobs are only assigned appropriately to printers on the basis ofthe schedule of each printer. In a case where various processes (e.g.,proof printing, final printing, and postpress processing) are includedin a single print order, different devices, such as a printer and apostpress processing device (e.g., folder and cutter), are assigned tothe individual processes. According to the scheduling method discussedin Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-063004, different processes arecontrolled as independent processes. In other words, this schedulingmethod does not consider a case in which multiple processes are executedcontinuously to increase efficiency. Furthermore, according to thisscheduling method, all schedules up to the current process are subjectedto optimization of the subsequent scheduling. Therefore, even whenmultiple processes have been optimized in an integral manner, thedetermination whether schedules can be changed throughout all processesis performed again or the optimization of schedules is performed againat a time when the subsequent process is scheduled.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an information processing apparatus, aprocess control method, and a program for use in a process controlsystem that performs control in such a way that correlated processes areassigned so as to be continuously executed when a plurality of processescreated from a single print order are scheduled.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, an imageprocessing apparatus for controlling a schedule of processesconstituting a workflow to carry out a print order includes a dividingunit, a schedule arranging unit, a grouping unit, and a first outputunit. The dividing unit is configured to analyze an input print orderand divide the print order into a plurality of processes to carry outthe print order. The schedule arranging unit is configured to arrange aschedule of the plurality of processes. The grouping unit is configuredto group a set of processes together from the plurality of processesaccording to grouping attributes of the plurality of processes, the setof processes being associated with each other by the groupingattributes. The first output unit is configured to output the pluralityof processes whose schedule is arranged by the schedule arranging unitin a recognizable manner. In the image processing apparatus, theschedule arranging unit is configured to arrange the schedule of theplurality of processes such that the set of processes is capable ofbeing executed continuously.

Further embodiments, aspects and features of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following description of exemplary embodimentswith reference to the attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system in general according to a firstexemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a process control section according to thefirst exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a prepress section according to the firstexemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a digital print section according to thefirst exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a postpress section according to the firstexemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are block diagrams of an exemplary module structure inthe process control section, the prepress section, the digital printsection, and the postpress section.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate an example of a process setting file createdby a workflow editor.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a user interface of the workfloweditor.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the user interface of the workfloweditor.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example of the user interface of the workfloweditor.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of the user interface of the workfloweditor.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a user interface of a workflowscheduler.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of the user interface of the workflowscheduler.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example of the user interface of the workflowscheduler.

FIGS. 15A and 15B are flowcharts of exemplary scheduling in the workflowscheduler.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example of a document input sequence according tothe first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a screen appearing when a document isinput according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a screen appearing when input documentsettings are specified according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a screen displaying output settingsspecified when a document is input according to the first exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of the user interface of the workflowscheduler according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 21 illustrates an example of the user interface of the workflowscheduler according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 22 illustrates an example of the user interface of the workflowscheduler according to a second exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 23 illustrates an example of the user interface of the workflowscheduler according to the second exemplary embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS First Exemplary Embodiment

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below withreference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an exampleof a topological architecture of a print system in general according toa first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The exemplary system includes one or more end user environments 101 anda print on demand (POD) site environment 102 connected thereto over theInternet. The end user environments 101 include a customer who can placea print order. Customers can place an order for a print job with the PODsite environment 102 and check the status of the print job to the PODsite environment 102 from the end user environments (here, an end userenvironment A and an end user environment B) via respective clientpersonal computers (PCs).

The POD site environment 102 includes a process control section 103, aprepress section 104, a digital print section 105, and a postpresssection 106. The process control section 103 provides instructions as totasks in the processes to the prepress section 104, the digital printsection 105, and the postpress section 106 in the POD site environment102. The process control section 103 also performs centralizedmanagement on a workflow in a system composed of computers and devices,and more specifically, receives jobs from the end user environments,stores the received jobs, constructs the tasks in the processes in theform of a workflow according to the specifications of the received jobs,and efficiently schedules the tasks in devices and operators.

In accordance with the instructions concerning prepress jobs from theprocess control section 103, the prepress section 104 functions to scanpages of the document sheet with a scanning device (e.g., multifunctionperipheral (MFP)) to capture the document sheet as a scanned image filein a prepress server or a work PC in a case where a job from an end userdeals with a paper document, perform image correction, merge files,insert/delete a page, lay out pages, and impose pages. Additionally, theprepress section 104 functions to output a proof sheet to check layoutand color of a final product if necessary.

In accordance with the instructions concerning print jobs from theprocess control section 103 or the prepress section 104, the digitalprint section 105 functions to make a copy of a document sheet receivedfrom an end user with a monochrome MFP or color MFP and produce printedoutput of a document/image file that is received from an end user via aprinter driver or hot folder (described later), a scanned image filecaptured by a scanning device, an edited document/image file that isedited from the received file or scanned file with the monochrome MFP orcolor MFP from a work PC.

In accordance with the instructions concerning postpress jobs from theprocess control section 103, the prepress section 104, or the digitalprint section 105, the postpress section 106 controls postpress devices,such as a paper-folding machine, a saddle stitching machine, acase-binding machine, a cutting machine, an inserter, and a collator,and performs finishing processing, such as paper folding, saddlestitching, case binding, cutting, inserting, and collating, on recordingpaper output from the digital print section 105.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the details of an exemplary structureof the process control section 103. The process control section 103includes a Management Information System (MIS) server 202 connected to anetwork 201, an order server 203, a file server 204, and a work PC 205.The MIS server 202 is a system that manages a workflow in the entiresystem from order to delivery and controls various kinds of managementinformation and sales information.

The MIS server 202 serves one of the main functions of the processcontrol section 103 and is a system server which functions as anadministrative information system or business management system whichcollects and analyzes information required for decision making inbusiness administration and management. The MIS server 202 in generalserves as a system that controls various kinds of management informationand marketing information, including information regardingadvertisements, orders, estimates, plans, production, shipment, stock,purchase, sales, and the like. In particular, the MIS server 202 in theprinting industry serves as a printing manufacturing process controlsystem, and more specifically, performs centralized management ofprinting manufacturing equipment and resources and can provide amechanism for automating a total workflow from order to delivery or evento payment acceptance by using a job ticket in Job Definition Format(JDF) which describes task instructions for jobs.

The MIS server 202 according to the first exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention serves as a server computer that functions as thecenter of this business management system and controls the workflow inthe system composed of computers and various devices by issuing a JDFjob ticket in which task instructions for each job are described to eachprocess in the POD site environment 102 in accordance with jobspecifications from an end user. The MIS server 202 exchanges messagesin Job Messaging Format (JMF) with each process in the POD siteenvironment 102 and obtains information about functions and capabilitiesof each device, status information on each device, and progressinformation on an accepted job. The MIS server 202 performs centralizedmanagement of the workflow in the system on the basis of the obtainedinformation.

The MIS server 202 incorporates workflow editing capability andscheduling capability for managing the schedule of jobs and devices andcooperates with an application having these capabilities. Byconstruction of tasks in processes as a workflow and provision ofinstructions to execute each task and by arrangement of efficientschedule of the tasks in the devices and operators, the workflow in theprocesses can be automated.

The order server 203 is a server that receives a job from each of theend user environments 101 over the Internet. The received job is managedby a job identification (ID) number. The job ID number and informationrequired for management are sent to the MIS server 202. The order server203 sends information required for order implementation, such as inputdata and print settings, to downstream processes, including the prepresssection 104, the digital print section 105, and the postpress section106, in accordance with the instructions from the MIS server 202. Theorder server 203 acts as an intermediary in electronic commerce (EC) inthe POD and as a server that deals with job ordering between the systemand the client PCs in the end user environments 101 via a communicationmedium, such as the Internet. From a view of the end user environments101, the order server 203 is typically an online store, which uses webpages on the Internet.

For example, in the case of a print job order, a user authentication isperformed from the client PC in the end user environment 101, and printcondition settings, which specify print conditions to be output, andother print request information are then input. Then, a document/imagefile that serves as a print subject is sent as electronic data togetherwith the print condition settings and other print request informationfrom the client PC in the end user environment 101 to the order server203. In this way, the MIS server 202 functioning as a web serverreceives a print job order.

The order server 203 or each client PC in the end user environments 101may have a hot folder (not illustrated), allowing a document/image filethat serves as a print subject and the accompanying print conditionsettings and other print request information to be transferred as data.Hot folders are virtual folders that include print condition settingsand other print request information as attributes and can be created ina memory (not illustrated) in the order server 203 or each client PC inthe end user environments 101.

For example, when an end user drags and drops a document/image file thatserves as a print subject from each client PC in the end userenvironments 101 into a hot folder, the order server 203 or a monitoringprogram in each client PC in the end user environments 101 then detectsthe presence of the document/image file and associates the file with theprint condition settings and other print request informationaccompanying the hot folder, thus allowing the order server 203 to readthe information.

In the case of a copy job order, instead of sending a document/imagefile as electronic data, a document sheet which is a subject to becopied is sent separately as a physical medium via a courier service,and only copy condition settings, which specify copy conditions to beoutput, and other copy request information are input from a browser ofthe client PC in the end user environments 101. In this case, anoperator in a print service provider determines association of thedocument sheet separately sent as a copy subject with the copy conditionsettings and other copy request information input to the order server203.

The file server 204 is a document management server that stores a jobreceived from an end user to prepare for a repeat order of the samedocument sheet from the end user. The file server 204 usually storesimage data together with job setting information regarding the previousoutput (job ticket). The work PC 205 is a client PC that allowsinformation managed by the MIS according to the first exemplaryembodiment of the present invention and screens of a workflow editor anda scheduler, which are described later, to be displayed and set byremote operation.

The MIS server 202, the order server 203, and the file server 204 in theprocess control section 103 exchange information with one another byusing job tickets in which task instructions of a job are described inJDF. The process control section 103 can provide automation of a totalworkflow in conjunction with the prepress section 104, the digital printsection 105, and the postpress section 106 by transferring a job andissuing a control command.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary structure of the prepresssection 104. A prepress server 301 is a server used for scanning pagesof a document sheet received from an end user with a scanning device,such as a scanner 302 and an MFP 303, to capture the document sheet as ascanned image file and for performing various page layout editing andimposition processing. Examples of the various page layout editing andimposition processing include image correction, such as skew correctionand noise elimination process, merging document/image files receivedfrom an end user or scanned image files captured with the scanningdevice, insertion/deletion of a page, addition of a page number or anannotation (text or an image of watermark indicating confidentiality ora logotype), insertion of a index sheet, a cover, or an interleaf, andselection of N-in-1 printing or image combination printing (printing ofmultiple pages laid out on one).

A work PC 304 is a client PC that allows tasks in the prepress server301 to be performed from the client. As illustrated in the Figures, theprepress section 104 may include one prepress server 301 and a pluralityof work PCs 304. Alternatively, the prepress section 104 may includeonly the work PCs 304 without the prepress server 301.

In a case where a job received from an end user requests copying, anoperator first scans a document sheet with a scanning device, such as ascanner, or an MFP, to capture the document sheet in the prepress server301 or the work PC 304 as a scanned image file. If the scanned imageincludes a skewed page, the skewed page can be corrected by performingskew correction. If the scanned image includes a punch hole or noise,the punch hole or the noise can be eliminated by performing noiseelimination process.

In a case where a job received from an end user requests printing, anoperator first captures a document/image file received from the end userin the prepress server 301 or the work PC 304. If a plurality ofdocument/image files or scanned image files captured with a scanningdevice is present, the files are merged.

If further editing is necessary for the document/image file receivedfrom the end user or the scanned image file captured with the scanningdevice, for example, an operator may insert a page into an editing filefrom another file or delete a page in the editing file while checkingthe layout of a plurality of pages. Moreover, an operator may variouspage layout editing and imposition processing. Examples of theprocessing include addition of a page number or annotation, selection ofN-in-1 printing or image combination printing, insertion of an indexsheet, a cover, or an interleaf, and selection of postpress processing,such as stapling, punching, or Z-folding.

The prepress section 104 may be structured as a variable printingsystem, in which multiple copies of the same document are printed whilean address or other related data is continuously replaced with anotherone, in conjunction with the prepress server 301 or a databaseconstructed in another server, to realize a one-to-one marketing, suchas printing addresses for direct mail, brochures for individualcustomers, or the like.

In the printing industry, before plate-making and printing processes, anoutput process of a color comp (color comprehensive layout) to make apresentation to an advertiser is present. These days, as such a colorcomp, a color hard copy is used in which a digital color image processedby desktop publishing (DTP), which produces a publication using apersonal computer, or by color electronic prepress systems (CEPS), whichare used for image correction or image composition in a print process,is output from a color printer, such as a color MFP, or a color plotter.

POD using a printer, such as an MFP, can output proof sheets from thesame color printer, such as a color MFP (or a monochrome printer, suchas a monochrome MFP), as that used in a confirmatory check of layoutwhich corresponds to comp and a simple check of color and a detailedcheck of color. Therefore, the prepress section 104 can output proofsheets from the MFP 303 in order to allow the layout or color of a finalproduct to be checked when necessary. The prepress server 301, the workPC 304, the scanner 302, and the MFP 303 in the prepress section 104 areconnected to each other via a network, so that jobs can be transferredand control commands can be issued therebetween. In this way, jobsreceived in the prepress section 104 can be processed.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary structure of the digital printsection 105. The digital print section 105 includes at least one printserver 401, one or more work PCs 402, one or more color MFPs 403, andone or more monochrome MFPs 404.

The print server 401 usually serves the following two functions. One isto transmit information to and receive information from the sectionsoutside the digital print section 105. Information about images andsettings of an input job is first input to the print server 401. Theprint server 401 serves a function of informing the outside sections ofstatus information or other information when the job is complete. Theother function is to manage and control the inside of the digital printsection 105. The print server 401 performs centralized management on anexternally input job and a job occurring inside the digital printsection 105. The print server 401 can monitor the statuses of alldevices and jobs present in the digital print section 105. Additionally,the print server 401 can cause a job to pause, change the settings,resume printing, duplicate a job, move a job, delete a job, and performother control activities.

Each of the work PCs 402 serves a function of editing an inputapplication file, providing instructions to print, or supplying aready-to-print file and an auxiliary function of monitoring andcontrolling devices and jobs managed in the print server 401. Each ofthe color MFPs 403 and the monochrome MFPs 404 is an image formingapparatus that has various functions, including scanning, printing, andcopying. Since the color MFP 403 and the monochrome MFP 404 aredifferent from each other in terms of processing speeds, costs, andother conditions, it is necessary to select one, depending on theintended use.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary structure of the postpresssection 106. The postpress section 106 includes a postpress server 501,a work PC 502, postpress processing devices, typified by a paper-foldingmachine 503, a cutting machine 504, a saddle-stitching machine 505, anda casing-in machine 506.

The postpress server 501 is a computer that performs centralized controlof postpress processing, sets conditions for postpress processing thatis capable of being finished in the postpress section 106 in accordancewith job instructions received in the order server 203 or provided fromthe MIS server 202, and provides instructions for postpress processing(finishing) that meets a request from an end user. In general, thepostpress server 501 exchanges information with the sections outside thepostpress section 106 by using a unit for exchanging information, suchas a JDF job ticket, and with the postpress processing devices by usinga command or status in the postpress section 106.

The postpress processing devices can be classified into the followingthree categories:

-   (1) In-line finisher: A postpress processing device in which its    paper path is physically connected to the MFP and operational    instructions and status confirmation are electrically connected to    the MFP.-   (2) Near-line finisher: A postpress processing device, in which its    paper path is not connected to the MFP, so that an operator    transports an output product and performs the settings of the output    product, and information regarding operational instructions and    status confirmation can be electrically exchanged with the MFP via a    communication unit, such as a network.-   (3) Off-line finisher: A postpress processing device in which its    paper path, operational instructions, and status confirmation are    not connected to the MFP. Therefore, an operator transports an    output product, performs the settings of the output product,    manually inputs operations, and visually identifies the status    indication of a device.

Furthermore, the postpress processing devices perform various kinds ofsheet processing, including a cutting process, a saddle stitchingprocessing, a casing-in process, a paper-folding process, a punchingprocess, an inserting process, a collating process, and other bindingprocesses, on recording paper printed by an image forming apparatus,such as an MFP. The postpress processing devices are controlled so as torealize a binding form to be provided to an end user.

Examples of the near-line finishers (including the off-line finishers insome cases) managed by the postpress server 501 include thepaper-folding machine 503, the cutting machine 504, the saddle-stitchingmachine 505, the casing-in machine 506, as shown in FIG. 5, a staplingmachine, a punching machine, an inserting machine, a collator, andvarious other machines. The postpress server 501 keeps track of thestate of each device and job by polling the near-line finishers using apredetermined protocol to manage the progress of each job. In the firstexemplary embodiment, the multiple kinds of sheet processing describedabove may be executable by the respective sheet processing devices or bya single sheet processing device. Alternatively, any of the sheetprocessing devices may be included in the system.

FIG. 6A schematically illustrates the prepress section 104, the digitalprint section 105, and the postpress section 106, which are managed bythe MIS server 202, as an exemplary software configuration. A workflowcontrol unit 601 is a software program that operates in the MIS server202, collects order information stored in the order server 203 or thefile server 204 in a regular basis (600), and determines the procedurefor processes (workflow) to carry out the order from the orderinformation, thereby controlling and managing the workflow. The workflowcontrol unit 601 provides work processors 602 used for performingprocesses required for carrying out the order with instructions toexecute the processes.

The work processors 602 are work processes executed in the prepresssection 104, the digital print section 105, and the postpress section106 and indicate the respective work processes to carry out an order. Aworkflow editor 603 is a software program by which an administratordefines and sets a work process that is recognizable by the workflowcontrol unit 601. A process setting file (workflow setting file) 604,which is a described later, is created by the workflow editor 603. Theworkflow control unit 601 controls the entire job by reading the processsetting file and operating in accordance with the setting. A workflowscheduler 605 performs scheduling of the entire work process, which isdescribed below.

In the first exemplary embodiment, for example, in a case where a userorders a print request for a simple printing and binding service that isexecuted by performing imposition on input data, printing, and casebinding, the workflow is represented in FIG. 6B. The work processors 602for performing each process include a folder input process 606 forstoring input data from a user in the work PC, an imposition process 607for performing imposition on the data input in the folder input process,a print process 608 for printing the data subjected to imposition, and acase binding process 609 for performing postpress processing whichserves as actual case binding processing. For the sake of simplicity,the four processes are present in the first exemplary embodiment.However, the present invention is also applicable to a structure inwhich further detailed processes are included.

FIG. 7A illustrates an example of the process setting file 604 in whichprocess information is stored. A job type ID area 701 stores an ID thatidentifies the type of an input job, for example, “case binding”,“manual printing”, and the like. A process ID area 702 stores a processID that identifies a process. An estimated operation time area 703stores process processing time that is estimated in advance. Anaffiliated group ID area 704 stores an affiliated group ID thatidentifies a group to which each process identified in the process IDarea 702 is assigned. A group ID area 705 stores a group ID serving as agroup identifier. A movement attribute area 706 a stores a movementattribute which indicates whether a process group shown in the group IDarea 705 is movable or unmovable when the process group is to bescheduled.

For example, as shown in FIG. 6B, in a case where the job type indicates“Case Binding” and a job is composed of a folder input process, animposition process, a print process, and a case binding process, theprocess setting file 604 is represented in FIG. 7B. A job type ID area706 b stores “Case-Binding Print”, a process ID area 707 stores “FolderInput”, a process ID area 708 stores “Imposition”, a process ID area 709stores “Print”, and a process ID area 710 stores “Case Binding”.

In the first exemplary embodiment, as the affiliated group ID, thefolder input process and the imposition process belong to group 1 (711),whereas the print process and the case binding process belong to group 2(712). As shown in an area 713, an unmovable attribute is set to group 1as the movement attribute. As shown in an area 714, a movable attributeis set to group 2 as the movement attribute. In the estimated operationtime area 703, one hour is set as the estimated processing time for eachprocess.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a user interface screen of the workfloweditor 603 which creates the process setting file 604. A setting screen801 in the workflow editor 603 displays a “File” menu. If the File menuis selected, “New”, “Read”, and “Save” (not illustrated) are madeselectable to allow a process setting file to be newly created, theexisting file to be read, and the file to be saved, respectively.

Buttons for enabling editing functions in the workflow editor arearranged in the next stage 802-809. A “Select” button 802 is used toselect a process object region appearing on a work area 813. A “Group”button 803 is used to group selected process objects. A “CancelGrouping” button 804 is used to cancel grouping of processes groupedwith the Group button 803. A “Link” button 805 is used to link theselected processes together. A “Cancel Linkage” button 806 is used tocancel the linkage. A “Movable” button 807 is used to set the movementattribute for a group to be movable. An “Unmovable” button 808 is usedto set the movement attribute for a group to be unmovable. A “Delete”button 809 is used to delete a selected process or group.

Buttons labeled “E-mail”, “Preflight”, “Case Binding”, “Print”,“Imposition”, and “Folder Input” arranged in a stage 810 indicatepredetermined processes and are used to place each process in the workarea 813. A workflow list box 811 lists predetermined workflows for aprocess setting file that is currently open. A “New” button 812 is usedto add a new workflow to the currently open process setting file. Thework area 813 displays a workflow that is being edited.

In a case where an operator edits a workflow, the operator first createsa new file or causes the existing file to be read from the File menu 801to open a process setting file. To add a new process to the work area813, the operator selects any one of the buttons 810 indicating thepredetermined processes with a pointing device and drags and drops itinto the work area 813. To link two processes together, the operatorselects two modules corresponding to the two processes in the work area813 and presses the Link button. For example, FIG. 9 illustrates a casewhere a workflow for performing “imposition” on data subjected to the“folder input” process, a “print” process, and then “case binding”process is created.

To create this workflow, the “Folder Input” button is pressed with thepointing device and then dragged and dropped into the work area 813 tobe added therein. The “Imposition” button is pressed and then draggedand dropped into the work area 813 to be added therein. The “CaseBinding” button is pressed and then dragged and dropped into the workarea 813 to be added therein. The Select button is pressed, the FolderInput process and the Imposition process are then selected, and the Linkbutton is then pressed to link the selected processes together. TheImposition process and the Print process are selected, and the Linkbutton is then pressed to link the selected processes together. ThePrint process and the Case Binding process are selected, and the Linkbutton is then pressed to link the selected processes together. In thisway, the workflow shown in the work area in FIG. 9 is created. Each ofthe predetermined workflows listed in the workflow list box 811 can benamed freely.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 10, by selecting the Folder Input process andthe Imposition process and then pressing the Group button, the selectedprocesses are grouped. As shown in FIG. 10, a group of the groupedprocesses is recognized on the user interface (surrounded with a dottedline in FIG. 10). The grouped processes are scheduled so as to becontinuously executed without exception.

Furthermore, in the workflow editor, as shown in FIG. 11, by selectingthe Folder Input process or the Imposition process and then pressing theUnmovable button, the unmovable attribute is set to the group.Similarly, by pressing the Movable button, the movable attribute is setto, the group. In FIG. 11, the group with the unmovable attribute isshaded, thus allowing the unmovable attribute to be recognized.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a screen layout (user interface) ofthe workflow scheduler 605 (of FIG. 6A). In FIG. 12, selecting a Day tab1201 allows a user to view a schedule for processes on a daily basis.The schedule may be displayed on any time basis, for example, a weeklyor yearly basis.

The processes constituting an input job is displayed in areas 1202 to1205. The Folder Input process serving as a first process is shown in anarea 1202. The Imposition process serving as a second process is shownin an area 1203. The Print process serving as a third process is shownin an area 1204. The Case Binding process serving as a fourth process isshown in an area 1205. Although the name of a process is displayed oneach of the areas 1202 to 1205 in the first exemplary embodiment, aschedule for an operator who actually handles the process or a schedulefor a device that actually performs the process may be displayed as longas the displayed subject allows the process to be recognized.

A “Read Process Setting File” button 1206 is used to read the processsetting file 604 created in the workflow editor 603. By pressing thisbutton, a user interface for specifying a file (not illustrated) isdisplayed, so that the process setting file 604 can be read. Theworkflow scheduler 605 displays each process on the basis of informationin the process setting file 604 read by pressing this button andoperates.

A Job 1 schedule 1207 is scheduled on the basis of the estimatedprocessing time for each process described in the workflow setting fileand composed of Process 1 (1202), Process 2 (1203), Process 3 (1204),and Process 4 (1205). An unassigned job area 1208 is used to display ajob that temporarily escapes when scheduling the job is impossible. Theunassigned job area 1208 is temporarily employed in a case where a jobwould not meet the delivery time when each process in the job isarranged.

As shown in FIG. 13, the exemplary workflow scheduler 605 reads theaffiliated group ID area 704 and the movement attribute area 706 a setin the process setting file 604 and displays the read information on theuser interface in a recognizable manner. In FIG. 13, Process 1 andProcess 2 are displayed so as to be linked with each other, as indicatedwith reference numeral 1301, thus allowing grouping of these twoprocesses to be displayed in a recognizable manner. Process 3 andprocess 4 are displayed in such a way that a group frame is indicated bya heavy line, as indicated with reference numeral 1302, thus displayinga state in which a group of Process 3 and Process 4 is movable in arecognizable manner.

As shown in FIG. 14, the workflow scheduler 605 can change the groupingattribute and the movement attribute read from the process setting file604 on the screen of the workflow scheduler 605. In FIG. 14, a popupmenu 1401 is displayed by selecting a group with the pointing device andthen right-clicking on. Selecting a desired attribute in the popup menu1401 changes the corresponding attribute on the workflow scheduler 605.

FIG. 15A is a flowchart of processing occurring in scheduling in theworkflow scheduler 605. In the first exemplary embodiment, when a job isinput, a process identifier i for identifying a process is initializedto one (step S1501). In step S1502, Process 1 is scheduled. Process 1 isusually scheduled at the earliest time slot in time to which Process 1is assignable at the present time. The estimated processing time isestimated in advance in the process setting file for each step on thebasis of experience of an operator, the speed of a printer, the workload, and the like.

In step S1503, the process identifier i is incremented (by one in thefirst exemplary embodiment) to assign the next process, and processingthen proceeds to step S1504. In step S1504, it is determined by readingthe process setting file whether Process i and Process i-1 are grouped.If the both processes are grouped, processing then proceeds to stepS1505. In step S1505, it is determined whether Process i and Process i-1can be scheduled so as to be continuously executed. If, in step S1505,both processes can be assigned so as to continuously executable, Processi and Process i-1 are scheduled so as to be continuously executed instep S1508.

If, in step S1505, both processes cannot be assigned so as to becontinuously executed, it is determined in step S1506 whether anoverlapping group, to which an overlapping process that has existed (aprocess that overlaps the process that is being scheduled) is assigned,is movable. If, in step S1506, the overlapping group is movable, theoverlapping group is rescheduled in step S1507, and then Process i isscheduled in step S1508.

If, in step S1504, Process i and Process i-1 are not assigned in thesame group (not grouped), processing then proceeds to step S1510 whichschedules Process i. In this case, Process i is scheduled at theearliest time slot in time to which Process i is assignable at thepresent time. In step S1511, it is determined whether the set scheduleof Process i is appropriate. The determination procedure as to theappropriateness of the schedule is shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15B,which is described later.

If, in step S1511, the set schedule of Process i is appropriate, it isdetermined in step S1509 whether all processes have been assigned. If,in step S1509, assignment of all processes has been completed,processing then proceeds to step S1514. If, in step S1509, a process tobe scheduled remains, processing proceeds to step S1503 which assignsthe next process.

If, in step S1511, the schedule of Process i is inappropriate, it isdetermined in step S1512 whether a group to which Process i is assignedis movable. If, in step S1512, the group to which Process i is assignedis movable, this group is rescheduled in step S1513, and Process i isassigned. If, in step S1512, the group is unmovable, the job isdisplayed in the unassigned job area in step S1516. If, in step S1506,the overlapping process, which overlaps Process i, cannot be moved, thejob is displayed in the unassigned job area in step S1515. After stepsS1514, S1515 and S1516, the process ends.

FIG. 15B is a flowchart of the detailed procedure of the determinationin step S1511 shown in FIG. 15A. In step S1517, the identifier i in thecurrent process is substituted into an identifier j. In step S1518,processing time (estimated operation time) for Process j is added to theestimated operation time. In step S1519, it is determined whether theaddition calculation has been performed on all processes. If, in stepS1519, a process to be calculated remains, the identifier j isincremented (by one) in step S1520. As a result, the sum of theestimated operation times in all processes after Process i iscalculated, and processing then proceeds to step S1521. In step S1521,it is determined whether estimated operation time (equal to estimatedoperation time for the remaining processes) does not delay the deliverytime. If, in step S1521, the delivery time would be delayed, theprocessing proceeds to step S1509. If, in step S1521, the delivery timewould not be delayed, the processing then proceeds to step S1512.

FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary procedure from job ordering from an enduser according to the first exemplary embodiment. A customer block 1601indicates actions performed by a customer, which is the end user. A PODblock 1602 indicates actions performed by an operator at a POD site.

The customer uses a web page on the Internet and places a preliminaryorder with the order server 203 at the POD site (1603). For example, inthe case of a case-binding print order, a user authentication isperformed from the client PC in the end user environment 101, and printcondition settings, which specify print conditions to be output, andother print request information are then input. The customer sends adocument/image file that serves as a print subject as electronic datatogether with the print condition settings and other print requestinformation from the client PC in the end user environment 101 to theorder server 203. In this way, the customer places the preliminary printjob order with the MIS server 202 functioning as a web server.

The POD site performs processing for receiving and storing the job withrespect to the received preliminary order (1604) and forms an estimateof the cost of the job. The total cost is calculated in consideration ofthe print conditions input from the customer at the placement of thepreliminary order on the basis of an estimate of expenses for tasks andresources required for the job, a delivery charge, and other overheadcosts, and the estimated price is provided to the customer (1605). Thecustomer that receives the estimated price obtains approval from amanager (1606), and then places a firm order with the order server 203at the POD site (1607). The job print conditions or copy conditions setat the preliminary order can be changed at this firm order placement.

When the order server 203 at the POD site receives the firm order fromthe customer, task assignment is performed by using the process controlsystem according to the first exemplary embodiment (1608), and variouskinds of processing regarding printing/binding for the job are performedthrough each process in the prepress, digital print, and postpressprocessing (1609). When the various kinds of processing regardingprinting/binding at the POD site have been completed, a final product(printed matter) is delivered to a destination specified by the customerin advance (1610). The customer then receives the final product (printedmatter) (1611).

As one unit for receiving a job from the client PC in the end userenvironment 101 to the order server 203 via a communication medium, suchas the Internet, an order management application is used. FIG. 17illustrates an example of a menu screen for job ordering.

The menu screen in the order management application shown in FIG. 17 isa front page of the screen appearing when a customer logs in to theorder management application to place an order from the client PC in theend user environment 101 via a communication medium, such as theInternet. In the Figures, an exemplary Internet Protocol (IP) address192.168.100.21 is used in a uniform resource locator (URL) address 1701in a web browser. In the case of an environment that supports the domainname system (DNS), which provides a service that maps the names of hostcomputers to their respective IP numbers on a TCP/IP network, such asthe Internet, the name of the order server can be input instead of theIP address.

At the upper portion of the menu screen in the order managementapplication, a client name identified by a login name is displayed in a“Client” 1702 and a “Logout” button 1703 used for logging out from theorder management application. An “Ordering Menu” includes the followingmenu buttons: a “Case-Binding Print Service” button 1704 for a servicethat prints a document from electronic data and performs case binding; a“Poster/Panel” button for a service that prints a poster or the likefrom electronic data and performs panel processing; and a “Copy Service”button for a service that makes a copy of document sheet and performsbinding processing.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a screen appearing when the“Case-Binding Print Service” button 1704 is pressed. A file to be sentis specified in a box 1801. When a “Send File” (Start Uploading) button1802 is pressed, the file is sent and input to the system. Pressing an“Output Settings” button 1803 displays a user setting screen shown inFIG. 19, thus allowing various settings, such as binding, to bespecified.

In the first exemplary embodiment, an administrator of the POD site usesthe workflow editor, and a service that has a process setting file shownin FIG. 7B is provided. In the current schedule, as shown in FIG. 20,all processes in Job 1 have been scheduled in such a way that Process 1is assigned to 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., Process 2 is assigned to 10 a.m. to 11a.m., Process 3 is assigned to 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., and Process 4 isassigned to 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. As shown in FIG. 7B, Processes 1 (“FolderInput” process) and 2 (“Imposition” process) are grouped and Processes 3(“Print” process) and 4 (“Case Binding” process) are grouped. Thegrouping of Processes 3 and 4 has a movable attribute.

In this state, a procedure of scheduling Job 2 having the same Job typeID (case-binding print) as that of Job 2 is described below withreference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 15A and 15B. In this case, thedelivery time for Job 1 is 3 p.m. and that for Job 2 is 2 p.m.Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7B, the estimated operation time for eachprocess is one hour.

When Job 2 is input, a process identifier i for identifying a process isinitialized to one (step S1501). In step S1502, Process 1 (Folder Inputprocess) is scheduled. Process 1 is scheduled at the earliest time slotin time to which Process 1 is assignable at the present time. In otherwords, the Folder Input process serving as Process 1 in Job 2 isassigned immediately after Process 1 in Job 1, i.e., to 10 a.m. to 11a.m.

In step S1503, the process identifier i is incremented to assign thenext process, and processing then proceeds to step S1504. In step S1504,it is determined by reading the process setting file whether Process iand Process i-1 are grouped. In this case, since Process 2 (Impositionprocess) and Process 1 (Folder Input process) are grouped, processingthen proceeds to step S1505. In step S1505, it is determined whetherProcess 2 and Process 1, which is previous process, can be scheduled soas to be continuously executed. In this case, since Process 1 andProcess 2 can be scheduled so as to be continuously executed, Process 2is scheduled so as to be connected to Process 1. As shown in the Figure,according to the first exemplary embodiment, Process 2 can be assignedso as to be continuously executed. Therefore, Process 2 in Job 2 isassigned immediately after Process 2 in Job 1, i.e., to 11 a.m. to 12p.m.

In step S1509, it is determined that a process to be scheduled remains,the process identifier i is incremented in step S1503 and the nextprocess, Process 3, is scheduled. In step S1504, since Process 3 andProcess 2 are not in the same group, processing proceeds to step S1510.In step S1510, Process 3 is assigned to the time next to Process 3 inJob 1, i.e., 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., and processing then proceeds to stepS1511 which determines whether the schedule is appropriate.

In step S1517, the remaining processing time for Processes 3 and 4 iscalculated in steps S1517 to S1520. In step S1521, the estimatedremaining operation time is two hours. Since Process 3 is assigned to 1p.m. to 2 p.m., Job 2 is scheduled to end at 3 p.m. Since this end timeis one hour overdue, the schedule is determined to be inappropriate instep S1521, and processing then proceeds to step S1512.

In step S1512, it is determined whether a group to which Process 3 isassigned is movable. Since the determination in step 1512 shows thatProcess 3 in Job 1 is movable, Process 3 in Job 1 is rescheduled in stepS1513 to schedule Process 3 in Job 2. In step S1513, Process 4 in Job 1,which is in the same group as that in Process 3, is rescheduledtogether. In step S1512, it is determined whether rescheduling ofProcesses 3 and 4 does not delay the delivery time for Job 1 (3 p.m.).Since the rescheduled time for Processes 3 and 4 does not delay thedelivery time, it is determined that Processes 3 and 4 are movable.

As a result, Process 3 in Job 2 is assigned to 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., towhich Process 3 in Job 2 was assigned. In step S1509, since schedulingof Process 4 remains, processing proceeds to step S1503 and then stepS1504. In step S1504, since Process 4 and Process 3 are grouped,processing then proceeds to step S1505. In step S1505, it is determinedwhether Processes 3 and 4 can be scheduled so as to be continuouslyexecuted. Since Process 4 in Job 1, which has a movable attribute, hasbeen moved from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Process 4 in Job 2 is assigned to 1p.m. to 2 p.m. in step S1508. As a result, after this schedulingprocedure is complete, Jobs 1 and 2 are scheduled, as shown in FIG. 21.

Second Exemplary Embodiment

A second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is now hereindescribed. It is noted that only the differences between the first andsecond exemplary embodiments are described below. In the secondexemplary embodiment, a schedule before Job 2 is input is shown in FIG.22. The main difference between the second exemplary embodiment of FIG.22 and the first exemplary embodiment is that Processes 3 and 4 in Job 1in FIG. 22 have an unmovable attribute in place of a movable attribute.In the second exemplary embodiment, a procedure of scheduling Job 2 isdescribed below with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 15A and 15B,as in the first exemplary embodiment.

When Job 2 is input, a process identifier i for identifying a process byusing an ordinal number is initialized to one (step S1501). In stepS1502, Process 1 (Folder Input process) is scheduled. Process 1 isscheduled at the earliest time slot in time to which Process 1 isassignable at the present time. In other words, the Folder Input processserving as Process 1 in Job 2 is assigned immediately after Process 1 inJob 1, i.e., to 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

In step S1503, the process identifier i is incremented to assign thenext process, and processing then proceeds to step S1504. In step S1504,it is determined by reading the process setting file whether Process iand Process i-1 are grouped. In this case, since Process 2 (Impositionprocess) and Process 1 (Folder Input process) are grouped, processingthen proceeds to step S1505. In step S1505, it is determined whetherProcess 2 and Process 1, which is previous process, can be scheduled soas to be continuously executed. In this case, since Process 1 andProcess 2 can be scheduled so as to be continuously executed, Process 2is assigned immediately after Process 2 in Job 1, i.e., to 11 a.m. to 12p.m. (step S1508).

Processing proceeds to step S1509 and then step S1503. In step S1503,the process identifier i is incremented. In step S1504, it is determinedwhether Process 3 and Process 2 are in the same group. Since Process 3and Process 2 are not in the same group, processing then proceeds tostep S1510. In step S1510, Process 3 is assigned to the time next toProcess 3 in Job 1, i.e., 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., and processing then proceedsto step S1511 which determines whether the schedule is appropriate.

In step S1517, the remaining processing time for Processes 3 and 4 iscalculated in steps S1517 to S1519. In step S1521, the estimatedremaining operation time is two hours. Since Process 3 is assigned to 1p.m. to 2 p.m., Job 2 is scheduled to end at 3 p.m. Since this end timeis one hour overdue, the schedule is determined to be inappropriate instep S1521, and processing then proceeds to step S1512. Thedetermination in step S1512 shows that Process 3 in Job 1 is unmovable.Therefore, Job 2 is moved to and displayed in the unassigned job area instep S1516.

FIG. 23 illustrates an exemplary screen appearing in this time. Job 2 isdisplayed as an unassigned job 2301. In the second exemplary embodiment,an administrator of the workflow can change the schedule of Processes 3and 4 in Job 1 to be movable by selecting Processes 3 and 4 and thenadding the movable attribute thereto, as shown in FIG. 14. Therefore,the administrator can perform scheduling as in the first exemplaryembodiment by selecting the unassigned job 2301 and then moving theunassigned job 2301 to a schedule area 2302. As a result, scheduling isperformed as in FIG. 21. Therefore, both Job 1 and Job 2 can be completeby the respective delivery times.

Other Exemplary Embodiments, Features and Aspects of the PresentInvention

In the exemplary embodiments, the schedule and other informationdisplayed on the user interface can be printed out from an image formingapparatus, such as an MFP.

In a case where highly correlated processes are present in processesconstituting a workflow for carrying out a print order from an ordinaryuser, the processes are grouped by job type and the grouped processesare continuously executed. Therefore, the processes can be optimallyscheduled. Additionally, since the movement attribute(movable/unmovable) is added to each process group, it is not necessaryto perform the determination whether other processes are movable or theoptimization of the schedule again at a time when a process isrescheduled. Therefore, the schedule can be dynamically changed and setat any time.

While the present invention has been described with reference toexemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is notlimited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of thefollowing claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as toencompass all modifications, equivalent structures and functions.

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Application No.2005-058062 filed Mar. 2, 2005, which is hereby incorporated byreference herein in its entirety.

1. An image processing apparatus for controlling a schedule of processesconstituting a workflow to carry out a print order, the image processingapparatus comprising: a dividing unit configured to analyze an inputprint order and divide the print order into a plurality of processes tocarry out the print order; a schedule arranging unit configured toarrange a schedule of the plurality of processes; a grouping unitconfigured to group a set of processes together from the plurality ofprocesses according to grouping attributes of the plurality ofprocesses, the set of processes being associated with each other by thegrouping attributes; and a first output unit configured to output theplurality of processes whose schedule is arranged by the schedulearranging unit in a recognizable manner, wherein the schedule arrangingunit is configured to arrange the schedule of the plurality of processessuch that the set of processes is capable of being executedcontinuously.
 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1,further comprising a reading unit configured to read a workflow settingfile in which attributes of the plurality of processes are described,the workflow setting file being created in advance by a workflow editor,wherein the grouping unit is configured to group a set of associatedprocesses together according to grouping attributes of the plurality ofprocesses described in the workflow setting file.
 3. The imageprocessing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising, a firstdetermining unit configured to determine whether the set of groupedprocesses is movable or unmovable in the arranged schedule on the basisof movement attributes in a process group described in a workflowsetting file; a second output unit configured to output the movementattributes in a recognizable manner; and a second determining unitconfigured to determine as a first determination whether the set ofgrouped processes is capable of being assigned on the basis ofunoccupied time in the current schedule, and determine as a seconddetermination whether, in a case where the set of grouped processes hasbeen determined to be incapable of being assigned in the firstdetermination, if a first process temporarily assigned in the scheduleis determined to be movable on the basis of the movement attribute ofthe first process, wherein the set of grouped processes is capable ofbeing assigned by reassigning the first process.
 4. The image processingapparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a display unitconfigured to display a user interface, wherein at least one of theplurality of processes whose schedule is arranged and the movementattributes are displayed on the user interface.
 5. The image processingapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first output unit isconfigured to output the set of grouped processes in a recognizablemanner such that the set of grouped processes appears as a singleprocess, and the schedule arranging unit is configured to, in a casewhere the schedule is rearranged, move and reassign the set of groupedprocesses in units of the set of grouped processes such that the set ofgrouped processes are interlocked with each other.
 6. The imageprocessing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a thirddetermining unit configured to determine whether a scheduled group ismovable or unmovable on the basis of movement attributes described inthe workflow setting file.
 7. The image processing apparatus accordingto claim 2, wherein the schedule is automatically arranged by readingthe workflow setting file.
 8. The image processing apparatus accordingto claim 2, further comprising a manual schedule arranging unitconfigured to allow the schedule to be manually arranged on a userinterface.
 9. A process control method for controlling a schedule ofprocesses constituting a workflow to carry out a print order, the methodcomprising: a dividing step of analyzing an input print order anddividing the print order into a plurality of processes to carry out theprint order; a schedule arranging step of arranging a schedule of theplurality of processes; a grouping step of grouping a set of processestogether from the plurality of processes according to groupingattributes of the plurality of processes, the set of processes beingassociated with each other by the grouping attributes; and a firstoutputting step of outputting the plurality of processes whose scheduleis arranged by the schedule arranging step in a recognizable manner,wherein the schedule arranging step arranges the schedule of theplurality of processes such that the set of processes is capable ofbeing executed continuously.
 10. A computer readable medium containingcomputer-executable instructions for controlling a schedule of processesconstituting a workflow to carry out a print order, the computerreadable medium comprising: computer-executable instructions foranalyzing an input print order and dividing the print order into aplurality of processes to carry out the print order; computer-executableinstructions for arranging a schedule of the divided plurality ofprocesses; computer-executable instructions for grouping a set ofprocesses together in the plurality of processes into which the printorder is divided according to grouping attributes of the plurality ofprocesses, the set of processes being associated with each other by thegrouping attributes; and computer-executable instructions for outputtingthe plurality of processes in a recognizable manner, wherein theschedule is arranged such a way that the set of processes is capable ofbeing executed continuously.
 11. The computer readable medium accordingto claim 10, further comprising computer-executable instructions forreading a workflow setting file in which attributes of the plurality ofprocesses are described, the workflow setting file being created inadvance by a workflow editor, wherein a set of associated processes aregrouped together according to grouping attributes of the plurality ofprocesses described in the workflow setting file.
 12. The computerreadable medium according to claim 10, further comprising, a first setof computer-executable instructions for determining whether the set ofgrouped processes is movable or unmovable in the arranged schedule onthe basis of movement attributes in a process group described in aworkflow setting file; a second set of computer-executable instructionsfor outputting the movement attributes in a recognizable manner; and asecond set of computer-executable instructions for determining as afirst determination whether the set of grouped processes is capable ofbeing assigned on the basis of unoccupied time in the current schedule,and determining as a second determination whether, in a case where theset of grouped processes has been determined to be incapable of beingassigned in the first determination, if a first process temporarilyassigned in the schedule is determined to be movable on the basis of themovement attribute of the first process, the set of grouped processes iscapable of being assigned by reassigning the first process.
 13. Thecomputer readable medium according to claim 12, further comprisingcomputer-executable instructions for displaying a user interface,wherein at least one of the plurality of processes whose schedule isarranged and the movement attributes are displayed on the userinterface.
 14. The computer readable medium according to claim 10,wherein the set of grouped processes are output in a recognizable mannersuch that the set of grouped processes appears as a single process, andwherein the set of grouped processes are arranged in units of the set ofgrouped processes such that the set of grouped processes are interlockedwith each other.
 15. The computer readable medium according to claim 11,further comprising a third set of computer-executable instructions fordetermining whether a scheduled group is movable or unmovable on thebasis of movement attributes described in the workflow setting file. 16.The computer readable medium according to claim 11, wherein the scheduleis automatically arranged by reading the workflow setting file.
 17. Thecomputer readable medium according to claim 11, further comprisingcomputer-executable instructions for allowing the schedule to bemanually arranged on a user interface.